Elk Rapids Aims to Build on State Runner-Up Finish in 2025
- Jonathan Turner
- 7 days ago
- 2 min read
NATIONAL SOCCER NEWS: www.nationalsoccernetwork.com
Elk Rapids Aims to Build on State Runner-Up Finish in 2025
ELK RAPIDS, Mich. — Few programs in Michigan have raised the bar in Division 3 quite like Elk Rapids. The Elks put together a remarkable 18-7-1 season in 2024, capturing district and regional championships before making a memorable run to the MHSAA Division 3 state final, where they fell just short of a title. With a talented group returning, Head Coach Nate Plum sees this season as another chance to push the program even higher.
“Our expectation is to surpass our expectations,” Plum said. “Expectations are hard to live up to sometimes. My goal every year is to coach the best team Elk Rapids has ever had. That’s a hard thing to do considering we were in the state finals, but that’s what drives us.”
Loaded Lineup Returns
Elk Rapids brings back a deep and experienced core that fueled last year’s run. Up front, forwards Tyler Standfrest and Jayden Hresko provide finishing power, while Gavin Hamilton adds another scoring option. The midfield is anchored by Drew Plum, Mason Hilley, and attacking midfielder Carter Denoyer, giving the Elks plenty of creativity and balance in possession.
On the back line, defenders Jake Garrow, Eli Zbytowski, Jonah DenHerder, and Garett Godden return to protect junior goalkeeper Jacob McManus, who gained valuable postseason experience last fall.
The returning roster gives Plum one of the most complete teams in the state — experienced, versatile, and motivated.
Building on the State Finals Run
For Elk Rapids, last year’s postseason run was both an achievement and a measuring stick. Falling just short in the state championship has only fueled the program’s hunger heading into 2025.
“The season is not over until you lose the last game,” Plum said. “Play the good teams, they will show you where you need to get better. That’s how you grow, and that’s how you prepare for a run.”
Keys to the Season
Balanced Attack: With multiple goal scorers in Standfrest, Hresko, Denoyer, and Hamilton, Elk Rapids has the firepower to challenge any defense.
Midfield Control: The trio of Plum, Hilley, and Denoyer will be key to dictating tempo and creating chances.
Defensive Experience: A veteran back line in front of McManus ensures stability and toughness in big games.
Mental Edge: Having been to the state finals, the Elks know the demands of a deep postseason run and will look to draw from that experience.
Outlook
The Elks enter the 2025 season with one of the deepest and most experienced rosters in Division 3. With talent across all areas of the field and the lessons of last year’s state final appearance, Elk Rapids is positioned once again to be a serious contender for a Northern Shores title and a return trip to the MHSAA championship stage.
“Every season is about finding out just how good we can be,” Plum said. “And with this group, we have a chance to be very, very good.”
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